Munich to Metz is 515 kms and we travelled very speedily along the autobahn, reaching speeds of 120 miles an hour in places. Luckily Daniel is a great driver and we all were able to sit back and relax and enjoy the journey. We stopped quite frequently during our travels, as with 3 woman there is often a need for a toilet stop…but usually it was Marysia who spoke up first! Bless her…she loves to drink lots and what goes in must come out 🙂
The longest part of the trip was from Dachau to Baden Baden. We had planned a stop in Baden Baden but weren’t sure just where to stop. Driving in we noticed a very old castle on the hills surrounding the town. So we decided we would have a look. What a great decision!
Hohenbaden Old Castle (Altes Schloss Hohenbaden) is one of the oldest possessions of the Margraves of Baden – with origins that go back to the 12th century. The oldest part of the complex, the Oberburg (upper castle) is built on a crest on the southwestern side of the Battert hill. The newer Unterburg (lower castle) was expanded on the orders of Margrave Bernhard I in the late 14th century. The impressive Bernhardsbau, the main building in the castle’s lower bailey (courtyard), bears testimony to the heightened importance of the Margraves of Baden. In 1479, however, they moved to the more comfortable Neues Schloss (new palace) in the valley. The old castle fell into disuse, and was left in ruins after a fire in the late 16th century. Interest in Hohenbaden Old Castle was reawakened in the 19th century, when Baden-Baden became a popular spa destination. Today, the ruin, with its fabulous view, is one of the most attractive destinations in the northern Black Forest.
Entry was free and we were able to climb up and down stairs, walk along narrow passages and lean over the very high castle walls. We all looked for the perfect place to take photos of the marvellous views. All of us trying to be so very brave as it was exceptionally high and felt unstable, although it wasn’t really unstable. I am sure we wouldn’t be able to freely wander around it if it was unsafe. Another fabulous experience and celebrated with a lovely afternoon tea at the castle cafe.
Back onto the autobahn and the next stop is Metz. We arrived late in the afternoon, so a walk through the city strets looking for a nice restaurant for tea was in order. We came across a cathedral or two and also, very typical of Europe, the piazza, or square where people gather. We found a lovely restaurant and enjoyed our meal in the open air along with many locals and tourists. Very nice indeed!!!
